Protest planned at Belfast Tesla dealership to target Elon Musk

A protest set to take place at a Tesla dealership in Belfast this weekend aims to send a strong message to the company's owner, Elon Musk.

The demonstration, organised by Northern Ireland-based political group Progressive Politics NI (PPNI), is part of a global movement called the "Tesla Takedown."

PPNI describes itself as a group committed to transforming Northern Ireland by challenging establishment and sectarian politics while advocating for equality, social justice, and human rights. According to the organisation, the protest is intended to "hit" Musk "where it hurts" by targeting his business interests.

Musk has faced increasing opposition across Europe in recent months, particularly following his alignment with former US President Donald Trump and after political event in Washington in which he appeared to make a fascist salute.

A spokesperson for PPNI called on supporters to attend the demonstration, stating: "PPNI is asking all interested individuals and parties to stand in solidarity against the Fascism and Capitalism that Elon Musk perpetuates."

The protest is scheduled to take place at noon on March 29.

Organiser George McElhinney emphasised the reasons behind the demonstration, told Belfast Live: "Elon Musk’s recent outsized influence on politics is deeply concerning. Billionaires should not have the power to buy presidents, implement mass job cuts and austerity measures, or create international incidents with reckless tweets. This protest is about holding him accountable."

Tesla's Boucher Rd showroom which opened in late 2023 has already suffered vandalism this month with 20 Tesla vehicles having their wing mirrors broken, while some had their windows smashed and others sustained bodywork dents.